Emperor Naruhito of Japan to Visit Kew Gardens, Highlighting Longstanding Relationship with Britain
When Emperor Naruhito of Japan visits Kew Gardens on Thursday as part of his state visit to Britain, the deep-rooted connections between his island nation and the renowned London landmark will be on full display.
The 330-acre botanic gardens are adorned with constant reminders of the longstanding relationship between Japan and Britain. From bronze sculptures of towering bonsai trees to a meticulously carved Japanese Gateway replica of a Kyoto temple, the influence of Japanese horticultural art forms can be seen throughout the gardens. Gravel raked into intricate patterns surrounded by Japanese plant species creates a serene tea garden ambiance nearby.
Director of Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, Richard Deverell, emphasized the significance of the relationship between Japan and Kew Gardens, citing the organization’s monthlong festival in 2021 celebrating the bond.
Emperor Naruhito, whose lineage dates back over 15 centuries, will be accompanied by his wife, Empress Masako, during their weeklong visit to Britain. Both have a personal connection to the country, having studied at Oxford University in the 1980s.
The ties between Japan and Kew Gardens date back to the early 20th century, with the installation of the Japanese Gateway in 1911 after the two countries signed the Anglo-Japanese Alliance in 1902. The gateway, a replica of a Kyoto temple gate, was restored in 1996 and formally opened by the emperor’s sister, Princess Sayako.
During the visit, the emperor will explore Kew Gardens’ impressive bonsai collection, featuring miniature trees that have been meticulously shaped and pruned by skilled artists. The emperor will also meet with Masumi Yamanaka, the first Japanese residential botanical artist at Kew Gardens, to discuss her painting of the Miracle Pine, a symbol of hope after Japan’s 2011 tsunami.
The royal tour will also include meetings with the British royal family, with Prince William welcoming the emperor and empress at the start of their visit. King Charles III and Queen Camilla hosted a formal state banquet at Buckingham Palace, highlighting the shared interests and experiences of the two monarchs.
As the emperor and empress continue their visit to Britain, exploring cultural centers and historic sites, their stop at Kew Gardens serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring relationship between Japan and Britain, rooted in history and shared traditions.
